The City of Charlottesville has declared itself to be a respondent to the Virginia SCC review of the proposed $67 billion merger of NextEra Energy and Dominion Energy.
Charlottesville is now among a growing number of localities in the Commonwealth making the move to become a formal respondent to the review.
“By participating in this case, the city can present evidence, examine the proposed merger’s effects on our community, and advocate for protections that address our residents’ needs. Our focus is on ensuring those interests receive meaningful consideration in the Commission’s review,” City Attorney John Maddux said.
The move, approved on Tuesday by Charlottesville City Council, was done to give the city a chance to weigh in formally on the merger’s impact on electric rates, service and renewable energy targets relative to climate goals.
The city will also raise concerns about utility infrastructure within public rights-of-way, including poles that obstruct sidewalks and create accessibility barriers.
“Our residents deserve affordable, reliable electricity and a utility partner that helps us meet our climate goals and make our sidewalks accessible to everyone,” said Charlottesville City Councilor Jen Fleisher. “This merger could shape how our community is served for years to come, and Charlottesville should have a voice in that decision.”
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Chris Graham
